In London, Ontario, Statutory Accident Benefits (SABS) provide standard medical and rehabilitation coverage up to $65,000 CAD for non-catastrophic injuries, and up to $1,000,000 CAD for catastrophic impairments. You can also receive up to $400 CAD per week in Income Replacement Benefits, regardless of who caused the crash.
When a motor vehicle collision disrupts your life, waiting years for a lawsuit settlement to pay for physiotherapy or rent is not an option. Ontario operates under a “no-fault” insurance system, meaning immediate financial and medical support is available through your own auto insurance policy, even if you caused the accident.
These standard benefits are known as the Statutory Accident Benefits Schedule (SABS). Whether you are recovering at home in London or receiving acute care at the London Health Sciences Centre, navigating the SABS application correctly is vital to ensuring your recovery is fully funded. 💵
Step-by-Step Process in London, Ontario
Accessing your benefits requires submitting specific provincial forms within strict deadlines. Delaying this process gives your insurance adjuster grounds to deny your funding.
Step 1: Notify Your Insurance Broker
You must inform your auto insurance company about the collision within 7 days. You do not need to give a recorded statement about fault at this stage, but you must report that you were injured.
Step 2: Submit the OCF-1 Application
Your insurer will send you an Application for Accident Benefits (OCF-1). You have exactly 30 days from the date of the forms being provided to complete and return this document. This establishes your formal claim.
Step 3: Get Your Doctor to Fill Out the OCF-3
To prove your injuries, your family doctor, a chiropractor, or an ER physician in London must complete a Disability Certificate (OCF-3). This form dictates whether your injuries fall under the Minor Injury Guideline (MIG) or if you require extended funding.
Step 4: Claiming Income Replacement (OCF-2)
If you cannot return to your job, your employer must complete an Employer’s Confirmation Form (OCF-2). This verifies your gross income so the insurance company can calculate your bi-weekly Income Replacement Benefit cheques. 📝
Step 5: Attend Insurer Examinations (IE)
Your insurance company may demand that you attend an assessment with their own doctors to verify your ongoing need for treatment. It is mandatory to attend these IEs to keep your benefits active.
How Much Does it Cost in London?
Filing for SABS is a free process if you do it yourself, but the available funds are strictly capped by provincial law (unless you purchased optional enhanced coverage).
- Medical & Rehabilitation (Standard): Up to $65,000 CAD over 5 years.
- Minor Injury Guideline (MIG): Soft tissue injuries like whiplash are strictly capped at $3,500 CAD.
- Catastrophic Impairment: Severe injuries like brain trauma or paralysis unlock up to $1,000,000 CAD for lifelong care.
- Income Replacement Benefit (IRB): Pays 70% of your gross income, up to a maximum standard limit of $400 CAD per week.
| Type of Benefit | Standard Maximum Limit (CAD) |
|---|---|
| Minor Injury Medical/Rehab | $3,500 |
| Non-Catastrophic Medical/Rehab | $65,000 |
| Attendant Care (Standard) | $3,000 per month (included in $65k limit) |
| Death & Funeral Benefits | $25,000 to spouse, $8,000 for funeral |
How Long Does the Process Take?
Once your complete OCF forms are submitted, the insurance company has 10 business days to approve or deny your requested treatment plans. If you qualify for Income Replacement Benefits, your first cheque should generally arrive within 14 days of the insurer receiving your OCF-2 and OCF-3.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I claim SABS if I was a pedestrian?
Yes. If you were hit by a car while walking or cycling in London, you can claim SABS through your own auto insurance. If you do not have insurance, you claim it from the policy of the driver who hit you.
What happens if my insurance company cuts off my treatment?
If your adjuster denies a treatment plan or stops your income replacement, a law firm can help you file a dispute with the Licence Appeal Tribunal (LAT) to force the insurer to reinstate your funding.
Are these benefits deducted from my final lawsuit settlement?
Yes, to prevent ‘double dipping.’ Any money your own insurer pays you for income loss or medical care will generally be deducted from the final amount the at-fault driver’s insurance company has to pay you.
Can I get benefits if I am charged with a driving offence?
If you are convicted of an indictable offence related to the crash (like impaired driving), your insurance company can deny your income replacement and other specific benefits, though basic medical and rehabilitation coverage usually remains available.
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